He became a United States citizen as President Barack Obama was in his native Egypt trying to foster relations between the U.S. and the Muslim world.

Qubaisy, who emigrated to the United States in 1996, said he liked Obama's speech because the president offered hope for peace between the United States and the Middle East.

In his speech, Obama called for a new beginning between the United States and the Muslim world, but he also urged Islamic nations to embrace democracy, women's rights, religious tolerance and the right of Israel to co-exist with an independent Palestinian state.

"He gives us hope that all these issues are going to be resolved," said Qubaisy, 43. "He mentioned the Koran, that was great. I feel good that he visited my country. He was trying to bring people together and is looking for peace."

Qubaisy was among 20 people from 15 countries who became naturalized as United States citizen in U.S. District Court. The new citizens came from Israel, Yemen, Cameroon, Cuba, Vietnam, Jordan, United Kingdom, Sudan, Somalia and Jamaica.

Three Fort Drum soldiers led the courtroom in the pledge of allegiance. Before the oath of citizenship was administered, U.S. Magistrate Judge George Lowe thanked the soldiers for their service to America and remembered the three Fort Drum soldiers who were killed in Afghanistan Monday.

Lowe reminded the new citizens that becoming an American doesn't mean that they give up their culture and family. The diversity of immigrants enriches America, he said.

"Take pride in your heritage, but remember you are now American citizens," he said. "Take pride in being an American and all that it stands for."

The new citizens received a special certificate from Congressman Dan Maffei, D-DeWitt. Alogba Hanan Abdo, of Yemen, won the American flag. Her name was picked from the pool of 20 citizens.

"I'm so happy," Abdo, 22, said of winning the flag.

Urban affairs editor Maureen Sieh will have a full report on this story. Check the Metro Voices blog for more.